Consumers have been urged to be aware of their rights and to keep their receipts to avoid any Christmas shopping hassle this year.
The National Consumer Agency (NCA) opened its Christmas awareness campaign today with key advice and "top tips" for those shopping online and in the high street.
NCA chief executive Ann Fitzgerald said: "We would urge consumers to look out for the CE marking when buying toys and electrical items. The mark shows that the item conforms to essential EU health and safety requirements.
"Also, we would urge consumers to be sensible in their use of credit cards and to remember that a credit limit is not a shopping challenge - consumers should do their best to spend within the limits of what they can afford to repay."
The NCA pointed out that, under the Sale of Goods Act, the customer is entitled to a repair, replacement or refund if an item is faulty, not fit for its purpose or not as described.
"If this happens, it is the responsibility of the seller to put things right. Remember you will need proof of purchase so keep your receipts. If you remain unsatisfied with how a shop is handling your problem, you may wish to resort to the Small Claims Court for resolution of disputes covering items up to a value of €2,000," said Ms Fitzgerald.
"You are not entitled to a refund if you simply change your mind. However, many shops operate a goodwill policy of accepting unused returns, with receipts, within a stated time period."
The NCA also advised people to ask for gift receipts where possible when Christmas shopping. Some stores provide such a receipt, which does not state the price of the item, but allows the consumer to pass on proof of purchase with the gift.
The body warned that some gift vouchers have an expiry date and that stores do not have to replace lost vouchers.
In relation to online shopping, the NCA said that, in addition to enjoying the same rights as when shopping on the high street, customers are also entitled in most cases to return an unwanted item within seven days of receipt for a "no-quibble" refund.
The body said that security of personal financial information should be paramount when shopping online. Internet shoppers should look for a padlock symbol on the bottom of the website and check the seller is reputable.
In addition, the European Commission recently unveiled an online "shopping assistant" called Howard, which will help consumers verify the credentials of online stores.
Further information is available at www.nca.ie
and at www.eccdublin.ie